Lalmonirhat:Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu emphasized the positive impact of sports in deterring young people from engaging in harmful activities such as drug abuse and gambling. He spoke as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the Deputy Commissioner's Alokita Kishore Gold Cup Football Tournament-2026, held at the Lalmonirhat District Stadium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dulu noted that sports had nearly vanished from Lalmonirhat during the previous administration, but the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has significantly improved the sporting environment. He credited the commitment of the State Minister for Youth and Sports in organizing various competitions nationwide.
In the tournament's final, Bashundhara Krira Chakra claimed victory over Nababer Hat Adarsha Club with a 1-0 win. State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque, who attended the event as a special guest, advocated for the promotion of football across the country, highlighting the importance of nurturing young talent during adolescence to strengthen the national football talent pipeline.
Dulu addressed the young players, urging them to balance their sports talents with academic studies. He pledged continued government support to foster an 'enlightened' Lalmonirhat and emphasized the importance of protecting youth from drug abuse and gambling, which he described as significant barriers to a healthy society.
Also present at the event were Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Rashedul Haque Prodhan, Lalmonirhat Superintendent of Police Md Asaduzzaman, District Council Administrator AKM Mominul Haque, and various officials, guardians, students, and political leaders.